The dash lights on the Ford Explorer are inside the instrument panel of the vehicle. The Ford Explorer's dash lights use 161-type bulbs, which can be purchased at a Ford dealer or an auto-parts supplier. For safety reasons, the bulbs should be replaced as soon as they burn out. In order to access the Explorer's dash lights, you have to use a socket wrench and flat-head screwdriver to remove the dashboard.
Remove the screws from the dash trim on the driver's side, using a flat-head screwdriver. There are three screws above the instrument panel and four screws below the steering wheel.
Shift the steering wheel to its lowest position. Remove the dash trim from the Explorer by inserting the flat-head screwdriver under the trim and prying upward.
Remove the two panels from the instrument panel. Pull it towards you and disconnect the electrical plug at the back of the panel. Remove it from the vehicle.
Replace any burned-out bulbs by pulling them off the instrument panel and installing new bulbs. Reinstall the instrument panel and the dash trim.
